The Catholic Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, has warned that the escalating wave of insecurity in Nigeria signals that the country is at a critical juncture.
He made the remarks in Abuja during a dialogue on a ‘Whole-of-Society Approach to Preventing Violence and Conflict in Northern Nigeria’, organised by the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
“Insecurity in Nigeria shows that the country has hit rock bottom. No Nigerian needs an explanation about insecurity. If you haven’t personally felt it, you certainly know someone who has,” Bishop Kukah said.
The cleric stressed that a whole-of-society approach requires leadership from the government characterised by humility, transparency, and justice, while religious and traditional leaders must show courage in addressing extremism within their communities.
“We must feel free to raise our voices. Citizenship is not only about voting; it is also about accountability. When leaders fail us, we must hold them responsible,” he added.
Bishop Kukah noted that some attacks are driven by extremist ideologies, even if they are sometimes disguised as communal disputes or criminal acts.
He emphasised that lasting peace depends on shared responsibility across society.
He also cautioned against relying on arms as a solution, describing weapons as providing a false sense of security that does not address the root causes of conflict.
“Peace is a shared investment. You cannot enjoy the returns if you do not make the investment,” he concluded.
